Tag Archives: IP

ONVIF, the global standardisation initiative for IP-based physical security products, held its Annual General Meeting earlier this month, with an overview of important activities in 2018 and perspectives on the year ahead the order of the day. Attendees heard presentations on the final release of Profile T, an advancement which represents how ONVIF is keeping pace with technological advancements that affect product development and interoperability between IP-based physical security products.

In an acknowledgement of the organisation’s 10th Anniversary, ONVIF chairman Per Björkdahl highlighted the forum’s achievements over the past decade, including an overview of the six ONVIF Profiles, with a clear emphasis on the newly-released Profile T for advanced video streaming.

Collectively, the ONVIF Profiles provide support for more than 10,000 conformant products that are increasingly included in various bid and specification processes in projects around the world. Björkdahl also cited the continued involvement of ONVIF as part of the work of the International Electrotechnical Commission’s TC79 for international standardisation.

ONVIF also recognised the contributions of four individuals from various ONVIF Technical Committees for their work on different profiles and committees. Fredrik Svensson of Axis Communications and Dora Han of Hikvision were recipients of the ONVIF Award acknowledging individuals and companies who have made significant contributions to the organisation. As chairman of the Profile T Working Group, Svensson was a leading force in the development and successful final release of the Profile T specification. Han received anaward for her extensions to the specification, and also for supporting the development of other members’ extensions to the specification.

Distinguished Service Awards

One of two 2018 ONVIF Distinguished Service Awards was bestowed upon Baldvin Gislason Bern of Axis Communications for his role in developing and proofing the evolution concept as chair of the Technical Services Device Test Tool Evolution. Joining him in receiving this award was Dr Hasan Timucin Ozdemir of Panasonic, who served as chairman of the ONVIF Video Enhancement Working Group from 2009-2018. This Working Group is directly responsible for formulating and prototyping new features for the ONVIF specification.

“All of our award recipients have shown their significant and long-term commitment to the organisation as a whole, and in turn have directly and positively impacted the work of ONVIF,” enthused Björkdahl. “The success of our organisation would not be possible without the innovative contributions and hard work of our members. For that, we say Thank You.”

ONVIF Technical Committee chair Hans Busch of Bosch spoke to members about the specification development roadmap and its alignment to the standardisation activities within the IEC TC 79 Working Groups for video surveillance and physical access control standards. Technical Services Committee chair Andreas Schneider of Sony gave an overview of the Committee’s work on new and existing profiles, client and device test tools, updates to the conformance process and tools and Developers’ Plugfests.

ONVIF Communications Committee chair Tim Shen of Dahua provided a recap of ONVIF communication efforts in 2018. There has been a continued focus on market education about the specific Profiles through presence at industry events coupled with much media activity. Shen also reported on the success of the first-ever ONVIF Open Source Spotlight Challenge that took place earlier this year.

ONVIF chairman Per Björkdahl

Election results

The results of the annual elections for ONVIF’s committees were announced by Kevin Schader, ONVIF’s executive director.

Re-elected to the ONVIF Steering Committee were Mayur Salgar of Honeywell and Stuart Rawling of Pelco by Schneider Electric. For the Technical Committee, Hanwha Techwin’s Sujith Raman, Pelco by Schneider Electric’s Steve Wolf and Tyco Security Products’ Stephen Serplus were re-elected, while Hikvision’s Dora Han joined the Technical Committee as a new member.

Bob Dolan of Anixter and Giri Guntipalli from Honeywell were re-elected to the Technical Services Committee, along with new member Marwan Obeidat of Pelco by Schneider Electric.

Tim Shen of Dahua, Jens Berthelsen of Hikvision and Xinming Kang of Honeywell were re-elected to the ONVIF Communications Committee, while Cathy Zhou of Huawei joined as a new member. Founding members Axis Communications, Bosch and Sony automatically retain seats on the Steering, Technical and Technical Services Committees.

*Further information about ONVIF-conformant products, including member companies and their conformant models, is available on the ONVIF website at www.onvif.org

This level of conformant products marks yet another milestone for ONVIF as it celebrates its tenth year as a standards organisation, providing interoperability specifications for IP-based physical security products. The Profiles offered by ONVIF address video surveillance and access control functions and are increasingly applicable in security and connectivity environments such as Safe City initiatives, Internet of Things applications and intelligent building automation.

“With more than 10,000 conformant products in its tenth year, the acceptance for ONVIF in the market has grown in a way that no-one could have anticipated,” explained Per Björkdahl, chair of the ONVIF Steering Committee. “This number represents not only the success of ONVIF, but how our member companies, many of whom are competitors, have collaborated to provide solutions that are relevant and needed in the market. This is a strong testament of the importance of standards in our rapidly evolving marketplace.”

In the past two years, ONVIF has continued to see a strong commitment from its member base representing a majority of the manufacturers in the industry, along with a dramatic increase in new conformant products. The numbers reflect the increasing demand for open source standards in the market. ONVIF will continue to provide the framework for further conformant products that enable interoperability.

ONVIF-conformant products are produced only by ONVIF member companies and must support at least one ONVIF Profile. Products must be registered under the ONVIF list of conformant products to be considered conformant.

The Conformant Products page on the ONVIF website, onvif.org, is the only authoritative list of ONVIF-conformant products.

ONVIF has a global member base of established camera, video management system and access control solution companies. With Profile S for streaming video, Profile G for recording and storage, Profile C for physical access control, Profile Q for improved out-of-the-box functionality, Profile A for broader access control configuration and the Profile T Release Candidate for advanced streaming, ONVIF continues to work with its members to expand the number of IP interoperability solutions ONVIF-conformant products can provide.

*Further information about ONVIF-conformant products, including member companies and their conformant models, is available on the ONVIF website: www.onvif.org

Paxton, the global brand of electronic IP access control and door entry systems, is celebrating being named ‘Company of the Year’ at the Brighton and Hove Business Awards. The company was also highly commended in the International Business of the Year category.

The Brighton and Hove Business Awards are supported by the city’s leading organisations and are established as a benchmark for excellence in today’s competitive business environment. In selecting the ‘Company of the Year’, the experienced panel of judges were looking for “the company that has truly achieved all-round business excellence in terms of year-on-year financial performance, strategic direction, employee relations, Corporate Social Responsibility, innovation and a first-class service and/or product offering.”

The awards ceremony, which took place on Saturday 14 July, was attended by Nicola O’Donnell, Human Resources director at Paxton, and resourcing business partner Devin Yuille, along with representatives from other local businesses.

Nicola O’Donnell collects Paxton’s award

Commenting on the win, Adam Stroud, Paxton’s CEO, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have scooped ‘Company of the Year’ at the Brighton and Hove Business Awards, and to have been commended for our international presence. It’s a massive honour to be recognised among the top businesses in Brighton, and to be the only security manufacturer to win an award.”

Stroud continued: “We aim to be world-class in all that we do, from our products and services to our working environment. We’ve worked hard to develop a positive company culture and to support our staff on each step of their career with us.”

In conclusion, Stroud added: “While hard work, focus, investment and a good strategy are essential to the success of the company, most important of all by a long way are the people that work for Paxton. I’d like to thank all of the Paxton team. They have been responsible for our success to date, and will continue to determine the extent of our future successes.”

Videx has launched IP intercoms that are ideal for a wide range of installations including office blocks, apartment complexes, hospitals and commercial buildings enabling the door entry system to use existing networks and save both cost and installation time.

The Videx IP system is available as a convenient kit and as an expandable system which can be customised to suit the needs of any building. 12 gauge, 316 grade stainless steel vandal-resistant entrance panels are available along with the popular 4000 Series modular style, all with a wide angle colour camera and with one call button up to a maximum of 42 and an input for an optional second camera.

Neil Thomas, national sales manager at Videx, said: “The beauty of IP systems over conventional systems is that they don’t need dedicated wiring infrastructure and can be used on new or existing networks. These networks can be shared with other technologies such as CCTV, access control, building management and many others.”

The kits includes a wall mount 6200 Series videophone and the entrance panel which is available in standard or vandal-resistant form with surface or flush mounting options. The videophone includes a touch screen 3.5” colour display enabling the end user to customise a range of settings as well as initiate calls to entrance points, neighbours and internally to other extensions with the facility to have up to 16 videophones in each apartment or office.

An event log can also be viewed on the videophone with a video capture feature to see missed callers. The kit includes a 1.25 A 12 V DC power supply which can be used to power the entrance panel, a lock release and the videophone if required. The videophone can also be powered via Power over Ethernet (POE) from a POE switch.

Thomas added: “IP systems are generally very flexible and can allow for connections over an unlimited distance while using existing LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi and 3G/4G infrastructures and the Videx iOS and Android Apps. Installers are now very familiar with IP technologies allowing them to use existing knowledge and experience gained while installing other security systems such as access control and CCTV. IP systems offer greater flexibility to the installer, making it very simple to expand and alter a system as the need arises.”

Bespoke panel sizes are available upon request. Entrance panels and videophones all have two relay outputs, two inputs and RS485 connectivity which can be used for a variety of functions such as door/gate release and the activation of auxiliary functions.

LILIN has announced a major expansion of its surveillance camera family with three new AHD models featuring 1080p/1280H resolution, a remote auto-focus 2.8-8 mm lens and long transmission distances, along with the convenience of three form factors (ie dome, bullet and turret) to fit a variety of applications.

The new remote auto focus AHD products provide a value added offer with the high quality video found in LILIN’s popular IP series with integration into leading automation platforms.

“We have worked hard in identifying ways to improve the overall installation experience with our HD analogue products,” explained general manager Joe Cook. “Simply mount and aim the camera type that best fits the application then adjust the FOV and fine-tune the focus using AHD UTC communication from the DHD516 Series and other compatible recorders. Our newest AHD cameras allow security installers to maintain the familiarity of analogue video technology while allowing their end users to enjoy the benefits of HD surveillance combined with simplified installation.”

UTC technology allows end users to remotely set up LILIN AHD cameras using compatible UTC recorders, in turn reducing the time taken to do so and eliminating the need for varifocal adjustments at the camera. In addition, the infrared LED automatically activates for image capture in total darkness.

The new AHD652AX2.8 is a small, unobtrusive turret-style dome camera designed for indoor/outdoor use, and especially in low-light areas. The AHD662AX2.8 is a rugged outdoor dome camera featuring IK vandal-resistance protection, a defogging capability and an IP66 weather resistance rating such that it can operate in a wide temperature range from -40°F to 122°F.

The AHD842AX2.8 is a fully-featured bullet camera for both indoor and outdoor use.

In partnership with Tavcom Training, the provider of accredited security systems training courses, IFSEC International organiser UBM has unveiled some of the detail behind ‘The Future of Security’ Seminar Theatre. Sponsored by Panasonic UK, this will deliver a range of essential CPD-accredited presentations on the very latest in security technology design and integration when IFSEC 2018 runs at London’s ExCeL from 19-21 June.

Physical security systems are now heavily dependent on IT-based platforms. This intersection of technologies has opened up significant potential for security installers and engineers to offer even better solutions for their end customers. To reflect this demand, ‘The Future of Security’ Theatre will focus on these opportunities in offering a full set of free seminars. The sessions will expertly target key areas addressing cyber security, IT Best Practice, practical IP networking, integration and system design plus a wide range of additional core areas. All sessions will be delivered by specialist Tavcom trainers.

Delivering insight into the major security challenges, the cyber security sections will look into how robust approaches can strengthen an existing physical security system, providing the end user with even greater resilience to cyber threats.

From an IT security aspect, the sessions will include sessions on understanding firewalls and identifying vulnerabilities which can be inherent in the installation process. In addition, there will be exclusive sessions on the use of drones in security and how this technology is both a benefit and a hazard.

‘The Future of Security’ Theatre will be a major element in the new ‘Show Me How’ project at IFSEC International 2018, which will identify education opportunities and exhibiting companies as key destinations where visitors can go to learn about Best Practice and capabilities. Exhibitors will host technical experts on their stands to ensure visitors gain a direct understanding of the products and solutions and making sure they leave fully equipped with the right knowledge.

At the event, all ‘Show Me How’ areas and exhibitors will be clearly signposted to help visitors make the best possible use of their time at IFSEC 2018.

With cyber crime being an ever-present threat exploiting business weaknesses around storing data in multiple locations, Panasonic UK is proactively taking action to thwart such threats by expanding its cyber offerings. In particular at IFSEC International 2018, the business will focus on how integrators and installers can bring additional value to end users by providing ‘cyber safe’ environments.

Paul Tennent, sales director at Tavcom Training, stated: “As a leading training provider for the security and fire installer sectors, Tavcom is excited to be part of the new position IFSEC is taking as a major education provider. Its been interesting to see the insights and research IFSEC has gained over the past year, particularly so in regard to the expectations and direct needs of the installer community. It’s also acutely apparent that growth areas and technologies in and around cyber security are becoming critical, so we’re happy to lend our expertise to the wider IFSEC audience.”

Gerry Dunphy, brand director for IFSEC International, responded: “We’ve been through an extensive research programme over the past 12 months which has provided IFSEC with a clear set of directions, matching the direct needs of our customers. They’ve told us they have a need to understand the future. They need guidance on areas such as how cyber security impacts on physical systems and they need to hear from specialists they can trust. Working with Tavcom Training on ‘The Future of Security’ Theatre is the perfect solution given Tavcom’s history and expertise in these core areas. Our customers have told us what’s keeping them awake at night and it’s IFSEC’s duty to help them rest more comfortably.”

*IFSEC International 2018 is co-located with FIREX International, Safety & Health Expo and The Facilities Show, offering a strategic blend of related business to business events focusing squarely on the protection and management of people, property and assets

Vista has added new features and functions to the Viper range of NVRs, DVRs and associated matrix controllers. The Viper family was launched back in July last year and Vista is continually working on developing the range in line with customer requirements and feedback to ensure that “the perfect solution” can be offered.

Although the range is under continuous development, the overall purpose of the Viper family is to provide a multi-format recording platform, allowing end users to pull together Viper HD analogue DVRs and Viper IP NVRs into a single, seamless system.

The Viper virtual matrix controller affords end users complete control of the system through the uniform and intuitive central management software. The flexible range gives end users the opportunity to upgrade their systems at their own pace, with Vista providing high quality service throughout the process.

The latest addition to the range is Viper Remote, the App that allows operators to be in constant contact with their security system. The App provides alarm notifications straight to the user’s device, affords the ability to view live and recorded images remotely, offers various display options and also an intuitive navigation system.

Wide-ranging search options ensure that time is saved when reviewing footage and that important security events can be found with ease. The App also allows for the management of devices in the system providing the opportunity to add and remove devices whenever necessary from any remote location.

Vista has also been working to enhance the functionality of the H5 range of NVRs. The latest development is the de-warping function that allows 360 degree camera images to be seen in a more user-friendly, 180 degree view. This helps to improve the end user experience by making reviewing images as simple as possible.

In response to ‘Voice of Customer’ feedback and suggestions, Vista has been working on making the range compatible with Immix. This is another hugely beneficial function which is on its way.

Bob Forehand, Vista’s technical manager, explained to Risk UK: “The Viper family is an incredibly flexible range that allows end users to ‘mix-and-match’ Viper units, combining both IP and analogue systems. The flexibility of the range means that the solution can be developed over time, saving on upfront costs and accounting for the requirements of growing or developing systems. The addition of Viper Remote, Viper Central and the upcoming introduction of Immix make the already differentiated and comprehensive offering even more inviting.”